"Steve is and has been a dedicated member of our community for several years. He has accepted several requests to serve on various boards and commissions and stepped up to become the 5th District councilman ...," McDonald said in a statement. "He has the knowledge and understanding of the workings of the city from the services to the budget and he will be ready day one of the new term."

After 20 years as mayor, McDonald announced last year he would not seek another term.

McMichael has served on the New Haven City Council since January 2016. He will face Bob Nelson, East Allen County Schools president, in the May Republican Party primary.